BE DOWN Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "be down" typically refers to someone's willingness or readiness to participate in or engage with a particular activity or suggestion. It implies a positive or affirmative response, indicating one's agreement or eagerness to partake in the mentioned endeavor. It is commonly used in informal settings and casual conversations.
When a person says they are "down," it means they are inclined or prepared to take part in an event, outing, or any proposed plan. It signifies their consent or enthusiasm towards joining others in an activity. The phrase can be used to express agreement with a specific suggestion, such as "I'm down for pizza tonight" or "Yeah, I'm down to go to the concert."
The term can also convey an individual's willingness to support or assist someone. For instance, if a friend needs help moving to a new apartment, one might say "I'm down to lend a hand." In this context, "be down" suggests being available and willing to offer aid or contribute to the situation.
Overall, "be down" denotes a positive response, showcasing eagerness, agreement, or openness to engage in a proposed action or to provide assistance. The phrase often conveys a relaxed and informal tone, primarily used among friends or in casual conversations.
Etymology of BE DOWN
The phrase "be down" is a colloquial expression that originated in African American Vernacular English (AAVE) during the 20th century. It is derived from the verb "to be" and the adverb "down", each with its own respective origins.
1. "Be": The verb "be" has Old English roots and dates back to the early Germanic languages. Over time, it developed into various forms in different Germanic languages, including Middle English. The word "be" is often used to indicate a state of existence or identity.
2. "Down": The adverb "down" has a complex etymology. It can be traced back to Old English, where it was used to describe motion from a higher position to a lower position. Its roots can be found in the Proto-Germanic language and are related to other Germanic languages' words for "down".
Idioms with the word BE DOWN
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be down on luck
The idiom "be down on luck" refers to a situation where someone is experiencing a streak of unfortunate or unlucky events, often resulting in a difficult or challenging time in their life.
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be down in the dumps
The idiom "be down in the dumps" means to be feeling sad, depressed, or disheartened. It refers to a state of low spirits or emotional gloom.
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be down on (someone or something)
The idiom "be down on (someone or something)" means to have a negative or critical attitude towards someone or something. It often implies a disapproval or dislike towards the person or thing in question. It can also suggest a lack of support or enthusiasm.
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be down on (one's) luck
The idiom "be down on one's luck" means to have encountered a period of misfortune or difficulties. It refers to a situation where a person experiences a string of bad luck or unfortunate circumstances that can affect various aspects of their life, such as financial struggles or personal problems.
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be down on (one) like a ton of bricks
The idiom "be down on (one) like a ton of bricks" means to criticize, condemn, or punish someone severely or harshly. It implies that the approach taken towards the individual is forceful and unrelenting, similar to the impact of a ton of bricks falling on them.
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be down to (do something)
The idiom "be down to (do something)" means that someone is willing or available to do a particular task or activity. It can also imply that someone has no other choice but to do the mentioned task.
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be down on your luck
The idiom "be down on your luck" means to be experiencing a period of misfortune, hardship, or bad luck in various aspects of life, such as financial difficulties, personal setbacks, or a string of unsuccessful events. It implies that someone is facing a challenging situation where things are not going well or as expected.
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be down with (something)
The idiom "be down with (something)" means to be in agreement with or supportive of something; to be enthusiastic or accepting of something. It is often used to indicate one's willingness or enthusiasm to participate in or support a particular activity, idea, or trend.
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be down on like a ton of bricks
The idiom "be down on like a ton of bricks" means to be extremely critical, disapproving, or harsh towards someone or something. It is usually used to describe a strong and immediate negative reaction or response. The phrase suggests that the criticism or disapproval comes down on the subject with the same force and weight as a ton of bricks falling from a height.
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be down on sb
The idiom "be down on sb" means to have a negative or unfriendly attitude towards someone or to consistently criticize or dislike someone.
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be down to (one)
The definition of the idiom "be down to (one)" is to have only one option or possibility available or remaining. It signifies a limited or restricted choice.
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be down to something
The idiom "be down to something" can mean to have only one option or possibility left or to be left with a limited number of choices. It implies that all other alternatives have been exhausted or eliminated, and a decision or action must now be made based on the remaining options.
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be down to somebody/something
The idiom "be down to somebody/something" means to be reliant on or determined by a specific person or thing, often indicating that there are no other options or alternatives available. It suggests being at the point where someone or something is the last hope or the final factor influencing a decision or outcome.
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be down in the mouth
The idiom "be down in the mouth" means to look or feel sad, unhappy, or discouraged. It refers to a person who appears dejected, distanced, or lacking enthusiasm.
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be down to sb
The idiom "be down to sb" means to solely rely or depend on someone for a particular task or situation. It suggests that someone or something is now in the hands or at the discretion of a specific person.
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be down to somebody
The idiom "be down to somebody" typically means to rely on or depend on a specific person. It implies that the responsibility or decision-making power resides with that individual.
